NH BIKER

I recently went to Boscawen to watch the funereal procession for Pfc. George Roehl, a soldier from Manchester who was killed in Iraq. Pfc. George Roehl signed up for duty a year ago and had been stationed in Iraq for five months. He was killed by a roadside bomb. he was just 21.

The procession went through downtown Manchester and hundreds were there to pay their respects to this fallen soldier who gave his life for us.

As I waited for the procession in Boscawen others were gathering for the same reason. To pay our respects to someone we never met but we respected.

First we saw the blue lights coming around the bend by 93. Following the NH State Police were dozens of motorcycles, The Patriot Guard. It was cold and rainy that day and all the riders were geared up for the weather. They were holding American flags as well as there own. Many were even in cars. Lots were in full dress from their respective military branches. I cried. I cried for this young soldier who sacrificed his life for me. I cried for his Mom and Dad and siblings. And I cried for the Patriot Guards who made me so proud to be an American that stands by his fellow country men.

Please check out the Patriot Guard web site. Show your respect.

Rest in Peace Pfc. George Roehl

Patriot Guard Riders Mission Statement:

The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation.

We have one thing in common besides motorcycles.

We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.

We don’t care what you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a “hawk” or a “dove”.

It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your income is. You don’t even have to ride.

The only prerequisite is Respect.

Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives.

1. Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.

2. Shield the mourning family and friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.

Patriot Guard web site.